Greetings! I am Stacey Edwards Russo. I have been in the field of Early Childhood Education for over 25 years now and have played about every role there is! One of my favorite roles is being a mother of 4 children in a multiethnic family--my children continue to be my greatest teachers! A close second, is that of a life-long advocate for young children. For the past 13 years I have owned and directed a Montessori School with locations in Washington, Multnomah and Clackamas counties. My volunteer work spans Art Literacy, Girl Scouts, Community Endeavors as well as 18+ years sitting on various boards for organizations focused on uplifting our field and the professionals working in it. I have been the Vice President of an International Accreditation Council; Lead Funding Chair for several ECE schools; Vice President and Advocacy Chair for a Regional ECE Organization; as well as a consultant and board member to a local training center. 

I am running for Vice President again, because I strongly believe in the future of our State. In the past 2 years I have already seen positive changes in our connection with one another and ability to truly listen to professionals across the far reaches of our State. I am comfortable digging my proverbial heels in and getting my hands dirty when it comes to the work that is required in order to best support the children, families and professionals within our State. I am able to see the big picture of need as well as bring attention to the details that are necessary in this work. I am at a special point in my life where I am not only in and out of classrooms, but also getting the opportunity to hear directly from families and other advocates within our state. Because of this, I feel I can bring a level of knowledge, commitment, flexibility and support that is necessary to fulfil more of our strategic plan and possibly beyond! Thank you for considering me to represent you for another 2 years!